PUBLIC HEALTH IMPLICATIONS OF INTERNAL CLIMATE-INDUCED MIGRATION: TRACKING DISEASE PATTERNS IN IDP SETTLEMENTS IN NORTHERN NIGERIA.

Abstract

Climate change has emerged as a critical driver of internal migration, particularly in Northern Nigeria where environmental stressors such as drought, desertification, and flooding have led to a significant rise in displaced populations. This study explores the public health implications of internal climate-induced migration by tracking disease patterns in Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) settlements across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States. Adopting a mixed-methods approach, the research utilized surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions to collect data from 400 respondents, including IDPs and health officials. Results indicate high prevalence rates of malaria (75.5%), diarrhea (62%), and respiratory infections (51.3%), largely due to poor sanitation, overcrowding, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between sanitation access and disease incidence, while qualitative findings highlighted challenges in disease surveillance and public health response. The study concludes that climate-induced migration significantly amplifies health vulnerabilities in IDP settlements and calls for integrated WASH interventions, strengthened surveillance systems, and sustainable healthcare solutions. These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and humanitarian actors aiming to build climate-resilient health systems in displacement-affected regions.